Lead Cook

The University at Buffalo (UB) operates a comprehensive dining service system aiming to provide high-quality culinary experiences across its campuses. UB Dining, known for its commitment to sustainability, nutrition, and outstanding customer service, manages various food service operations including Campus Dining and Three Pillars Catering. The establishment boasts modern facilities like the Crossroads Culinary Center and offers a dynamic work environment that encourages employee growth, development, and participation in industry events. This well-established institution is renowned for its vibrant campus life and progressive workplace culture, creating ample room for career advancement in culinary arts and hospitality services.

The Lead Cook role at UB Dining is a pivotal position that bridges culinary expertise with leadership responsibilities within a high-volume food service operation. This full-time role offers a starting wage of $19.48 per hour and is ideally suited for culinary professionals eager to advance their careers in an educational and catering environment. Responsibilities include producing quality meals for a diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and visitors while emphasizing timely service and customer satisfaction. The Lead Cook will oversee food production and preparation processes, ensuring that recipes and operational standards are meticulously followed and that kitchen workstations maintain excellent organization and sanitation standards. Candidates must have experience working with multiple cooking techniques, including sautéing, roasting, frying, broiling, braising, steaming, stewing, cold food preparation, and food presentation, indicative of versatility and culinary depth.

This position demands a strong team player with superior communication skills who can manage multiple tasks efficiently in a bustling kitchen environment. The Lead Cook will collaborate closely with other kitchen staff within Campus Dining and Three Pillars Catering to coordinate efforts and meet the demands of large-scale meal services. A significant component of the role involves leadership by example—demonstrating proficiency in professional knife handling, food safety protocols, and customer service excellence. Employees enjoy opportunities beyond day-to-day duties such as participation in national culinary competitions, industry and collegiate conferences, and continuing professional development, allowing them to sharpen their skills and gain recognition within the culinary field.

In addition to the competitive hourly rate, the University at Buffalo promotes a supportive ecosystem where culinary staff have access to advanced training, exposure to creative culinary trends, and the chance to work in a state-of-the-art facility that is well-regarded in the college dining industry. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Crossroads Culinary Center during the CDS Open House event for live cooking demonstrations, facility tours, and on-the-spot interviews, highlighting UB Dining's commitment to recruiting passionate culinary professionals and fostering a vibrant culinary community.